"I can't thank them enough": Mariners captain leaves for Spain

Alan Baro has left the Central Coast Mariners to pursue "other opportunities" in his homeland.

The 32-year-old was one of the sole bright spots under Paul Okon's management last term, although admittedly at times he skippered a very leaky ship.

Baro captained the side 24 times, with the club finishing last in 2017/18.

New Mariners coach, Mike Mulvey, previously said that he wanted to "build a team" around Baro's central-defensive partner, Antony Golec.

“I feel sad to be leaving,” Baro said.

“I have nothing but positive things to say about this club, the Coast, the community and all of the fans.

“Me and my family were treated so well here on the Central Coast and I leave Australia with many close friends because the Central Coast is one of the best places we’ve ever lived.

“It was a difficult season and we didn’t get the results we deserved – but at the Mariners there are a fantastic group of people at the club who I am confident will take this club forward.

“Despite those results – the support of the Mariners fans and community was amazing and I can’t thank them enough for that. I want to take this opportunity to thank the fans, the club and the Central Coast community for their ongoing support and making our time on the Central Coast very enjoyable."